Salat: The Second Pillar of Islam
Salat, also known as Namaz, is one of the Second pillars of Islam and holds a central place in the life of every Muslim. It is most important in Islam. As Muslims prays five times a day to Allah (SWT).
what is salat?
Salat, derived from the Arabic word صلوة (Salawat), means “prayer” or “connection.” Salat is defined as the act of offering prayers to Allah SWT. It is farz by Allah to each individual pray five times a day.
Importance of Salat
- A pillar of Faith: Salat is the second pillar of Islam, highlighting its significance in the life of a Muslim. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The first matter that the slave will be brought to account for on the Day of Judgment is the prayer. If it is sound, then the rest of his deeds will be sound. If it is bad, then the rest of his deeds will be bad.” (Tirmidhi) - A Daily Reminder
Praying five times a day keeps Muslims mindful of Allah (SWT) throughout their daily lives. It serves as a constant reminder of their purpose and the ultimate accountability in the Hereafter. - Source of Peace and Tranquility
Salah is a sanctuary for the heart. In the Quran, Allah (SWT) says:
“Indeed, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Quran 13:28)
How to Perform Salat??
We offer a namaz face towards Qibla(Qibla is the direction of Kaaba) -Makkah.
Prayer’s Name:
- Fajr – this is performed before sunrise
- Zohr – this is performed at midday
- Asr – this is performed between Zohr and sunset
- Maghrib – this is performed at sunset
- Isha – this is performed between Maghrib and midnight
Rules to perform salat : First to do a Wadu and after follow the following rules
Niyyah (Intention):
Begin with the intention of performing the prayer sincerely for Allah.Takbir:
Raise your hands and say Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest).Recitation:
Recite Surah Al-Fatihah followed by any other Quranic verse or chapter.Ruku (Bowing):
Bow and say Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem (Glory is to my Lord, the Most Great).Rising from Ruku:
Stand straight and say:- Sami’Allahu liman hamidah (Allah hears those who praise Him).
- Then say: Rabbana lakal hamd (Our Lord, to You belongs all praise)
Sujud (Prostration):
Prostrate and say Subhana Rabbiyal A’la (Glory is to my Lord, the Most High).Tashahhud:
Sit and recite the testimony of faith (At-Tahiyyat).- Tasleem:
End the prayer by turning your head to the right and left, saying As-salamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah .
Conclusion
Salat is much more than a religious obligation; it is a gift from Allah (SWT) that provides guidance, strength, and inner peace. It reminds us of our dependence on Allah, our ultimate goal in life, and our accountability in the Hereafter.
“May Allah make us steadfast in our prayers and grant us the ability to perform them with sincerity and devotion”. Ameen.